A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wellington vs. Aalborg for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Wellington or Aalborg?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Wellington or Aalborg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wellington

Wellington is a funky, compact, and laid-back city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Wellington travel costs.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Aalborg travel costs.

Wellington and Aalborg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Wellington or Aalborg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wellington than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Wellington is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Wellington is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Wellington different from Aalborg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aalborg and Wellington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wellington or Aalborg?

Wellington
Aalborg

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Wellington and Aalborg.

Wellington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aalborg. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


Is the Food Better in Wellington or Aalborg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wellington
Aalborg

Both Wellington and Aalborg offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Wellington has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Dining out in Aalborg is an experience not to be missed. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Nightlife?

Wellington
Aalborg

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Wellington and Aalborg.

Wellington has a large number of nightlife venues. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Aalborg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Beaches?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for its beaches. However, Aalborg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Wellington for it's beautiful beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Aalborg is not a beach destination.


Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for its Old Town?

Wellington
Aalborg

Aalborg is a popular place for its old town. However, Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Hiking?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Wellington offers some nice hiking trails. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Aalborg?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Wellington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.


Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Families?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wellington is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Couples?

Wellington
Aalborg

With fun activities for couples, both Wellington and Aalborg make for a nice place to visit.

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Aalborg is a good city for couples to visit. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Students?

Wellington
Aalborg

Both Wellington and Aalborg are nice destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Aalborg is popular with students. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Is Wellington or Aalborg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Wellington can move around easily with public transportation. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Is Wellington or Aalborg a more walkable city?

Wellington
Aalborg

Wellington is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Wellington is very walkable. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Wellington Worth Visiting? and Is Aalborg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aalborg or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Aalborg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wellington and Aalborg. In our opinion, Wellington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Wellington than Aalborg. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Wellington than Aalborg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Wellington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Wellington than Aalborg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Wellington that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington than Aalborg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Wellington.


  • How many days in Wellington or Aalborg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wellington 2-3 
    Aalborg 2-3

One day in Wellington or Aalborg?

In Wellington, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the local town of Aalborg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wellington or Aalborg?

In Wellington, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wellington has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Aalborg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Wellington or Aalborg?

Wellington is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Aalborg, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Wellington or Aalborg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wellington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Aalborg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, and The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark.


Which place is cheaper, Aalborg or Wellington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Wellington is $124, while the average daily cost in Aalborg is $209. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Wellington and Aalborg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wellington $60
    Aalborg $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wellington $120
    Aalborg $192
Compare Hotels in Wellington and Aalborg

Looking for a hotel in Wellington or Aalborg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Wellington


Hotels in Aalborg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Wellington Hotel Prices and Aalborg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wellington $12
    Aalborg $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

Also for Wellington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour: $59
  • Private Airport Transfer Service Vice Versa in Wellington by SUV: $74
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington Port: $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Cruise Port to Wellington Hotels: $105
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Port to Wellington Airport (WLG): $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $105
  • Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington - Arrival Private Transfer: $78
  • Wellington Airport(WLG) to Wellington-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $155
  • Wellington to Wellington Airport(WLG)-Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • WLG Airport to City Private RoundTrip Transfer: $93
  • Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket + Transfer: $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $96
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $144
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $144

Is it cheaper to fly into Wellington or Aalborg?

Prices for flights to both Aalborg and Wellington change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Wellington $51
    Aalborg $89
Typical Food Prices in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner
    $8.87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hour Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Capital Bites, A food tour of Wellington: $134

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wellington $16
    Aalborg $26

Tours and Activities in Wellington

For Wellington, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Return Cable Car Ticket: $6.95
  • Wellington Zoo General Entry Tickets: $15
  • Skip the Line: Staglands Wildlife Reserve Entry Ticket: $17
  • Private Group Puzzle-Solving Adventure Game: Atlantis: $27
  • Private Group Puzzle-Solving Adventure Game: Spaceship: $27
  • Private Group Puzzle-Solving Adventure Game: Temple: $27
  • Wētā Workshop Creative Classes Experience Ticket: $32
  • Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket: $32
  • Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament: $33
  • Wētā Workshop Experiences Tour - Wellington: $33
  • Zealandia by Day Tour: $37
  • Auckland: Wētā Workshop Unleashed Creative Classes Ticket: $38

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $48
  • Denmark: Tour of Aalborg in Spanish: $118
  • Wonderful Christmas in Aalborg - Private Walking Tour: $1,434

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wellington $12
    Aalborg $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Wellington

Also in Wellington, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wellington Craft Beer & Brewery Half-Day Tour: $98
  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $99
  • From Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour: $168
  • Exclusive Martinborough Wine Tour: $208
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $391


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wellington and Aalborg, we can see that Aalborg is more expensive. And not only is Wellington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Wellington is in Pacific and Aalborg is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Wellington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wellington and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aalborg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aalborg than you might in Wellington.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Wellington Expensive? and Is Aalborg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wellington or Aalborg?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Wellington and Aalborg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Wellington or Aalborg?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Aalborg has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Wellington or Aalborg in the Summer?

Both Aalborg and Wellington during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Wellington is generally a little warmer than Aalborgin July. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 18°C (64°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Wellington usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Aalborgin July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Wellington 18°C (64°F) 
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Wellington or Aalborg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Aalborg. The autumn months attract visitors to Wellington because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year.

Wellington is much warmer than Aalborg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Aalborg fluctuates around 9°C (48°F)in October.

In April, Wellington usually receives more rain than Aalborgin October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Wellington 15°C (58°F) 
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Wellington or Aalborg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Aalborg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wellington this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Aalborg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aalborg. In the winter, Wellington is much warmer than Aalborg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wellington in July average around 10°C (49°F), and Aalborg averages at about -1°C (31°F)in January.

Wellington receives a lot of rain in the winter. Wellington usually gets more rain in July than Aalborgin January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Wellington 10°C (49°F) 
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Wellington or Aalborg in the Spring?

Both Aalborg and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Aalborg in the spring for the small town charm.

In October, Wellington is generally much warmer than Aalborgin April. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 13°C (55°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In October, Wellington usually receives more rain than Aalborgin April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Wellington 13°C (55°F) 
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Aalborg and Wellington

Wellington Aalborg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)